That's pretty much the reputation Fresno (actually most of the Central Valley) has - the 'armpit' of California or what have you. There are cities with a lot of culture here (LA and SF) that makes Fresno a little boring in comparison, but I don't question my parent's decision to make a home there!
(CarolinaCutie - You must have been downtown; when I moved to the SF Bay Area, I couldn't believe the lack of trees here because I was so used to being in an area with such an abundance in Fresno)
Again I know I am biased, but what can I do
